NanoBiotechnology is the study and manipulation of biological molecules, cellular components and engineered materials with nanometer-scale dimensions. Nanoscale materials with unique properties have application in drug delivery, therapeutics, imaging and diagnostics. In addition, nanoscale analytical tools and techniques are improving our ability to understand and manipulate living cells and biological molecules, potentially leading the way to new sensors, materials, electronics, and manufacturing processes. These advances are occurring through the multidisciplinary integration of nanotechnology with biology and medicine.

The development of nanobiotechnology is limited by the ability to manufacture, chemically modify, manipulate, purify, quantify and characterize nanoparticles. In addition, the fate of nanoparticles in the body and in the ecosystem is largely unknown. This workshop will aim to identify the most critical measurement and standards needs in this developing area of nanobiotechnology. Direction for these efforts will be sought from industrial partners, US government agencies and academic institutions that work in close alliance with companies and/or medical centers.

The USMS NanoBiotechnology Workshop will bring together representatives from industry, government, and academic laboratories to identify industrial metrology needs. Based on input from our stakeholders, we will develop a long-term vision for research and for NanoBiotechnology. The workshop will seek to identify the best courses of action and the organizations that can carry out the work. This will be one small step for metrology that helps NIST and its partners define critical industry needs in the short and long-term.

John J. Kasianowicz, Semiconductor Electronics Division, (301) 975-5853 john.kasianowicz@nist.gov

Gradimir Georgevich, ATP, (301) 975-2180, gradimir.georgevich@nist.gov